Preschool Guidance & Materials

Preschool Celebrations

There should be times for celebrating and for bringing closure to the children’s time together. These large group times should be active, designed around children’s interests, and take place for a length of time that is appropriate for the children. Graduation ceremonies that require a lot of time for practice and memorization, or that focus on adult-centered activities, are not appropriate for preschool. The practice sessions may create a high level of stress for both children and teachers.

An appropriate end of the year celebration should be participatory and meaningful for all the children. Familiar music and movement activities, reciting poems and finger plays, or acting out a familiar story are all appropriate choices to incorporate into the designated day. The celebration will be most comfortable for the children if it takes place in a familiar location such as the classroom or familiar outside area.